Alterations: In my opinion this model has excess ease for a double knit dress. I downsized for a 10. Instead of the china silk lining, I opted for special purpose knit lining. I also didn’t find the hook&eye on the back necessary.

Details:

Front neckline detail:The invisible zipper (it’s really invisible, that’s why you don’t see it!)The knit lining and the facings:The wrong side of the armholes, where the lining is hand tacked to the dress (also note that I trimmed the upper shoulder/sleeve SAs to reduce bulk on this area)The dress and lining hems; there is no need of seam finishing with this fabric (I didn’t use my serger for this dress) thanks to the double knit fabric! I really love sewing with double knit!Conclusion: This pattern has some issues: first it’s rated as easy and I must disagree; this pattern should be rated as intermediate (the facing construction/finishing is not that straight forward in my opinion). To make it work you should really use a moderate stretch fabric and, as I said before, beware of the ease. Close to no ease should be enough, so look for the final measurement markings on the pattern no pick your size! I also think that if I had used my usual size 12 the shoulders would be too wide, so take that into account too (a first fitting should be performed in order to determine the shoulder fit). It is VERY IMPORTANT to press as you go and to take extra care on the rounded seams (clipping/notching). The facing seams should be pressed open and graded before turning the facings to their right side. Mind the shoulder seams (I trimmed them to 1/8” to reduce bulk).

LOL, I can't believe it. I have this pattern and was planning to make it - in red(!) - in January or February!!! I will reference your post when I make mine as you have posted some interesting comments regarding the pattern that I was questioning for myself - the neck/shoulders in particular.

You have done a marvelous job with it and look wonderful wearing it. I love the tights, boots and chunky bracelets, too!

Tany - another beautiful garment! Thank you for sharing such insightful comments on the construction - I am sure that quite a few of us purchased this pattern so your comments will be very illuminating during the construction process!

The dress is stunning on you an fit for a holiday evening! That neckline is really special and not something you can pick up on from the pattern envelope or detail drawings. Thanks for your tips on maneauvering this design.

A beautiful dress, beautifully sewn! Thank you SO VERY MUCH for posting the details of your construction techniques and showing interior pictures of the garment. I am a beginning sewer, and I learn so very much from reading your posts!

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